Rapid assessment of the impact of the National Service Framework for Older People in Wales

Abstract

PurposeThis rapid assessment aims to focus on the perceptions of healthcare staff from Welsh Health Boards on the National Service Framework (NSF) for Older People.Design/methodology/approachA questionnaire was sent by email to key colleagues in each of the seven Health Boards. This was crucial for this rapid assessment and conferred the additional advantage of also allowing for correspondence to be undertaken. Anonymity was crucial to allow colleagues to score their returns honestly.FindingsOverall, the position was equivocal and the impact of the NSF was perceived as too difficult to assess. The most promising element of the NSF appeared to be a perception on the impact on joint health and social care working.Research limitations/implicationsA rapid assessment exercise, using existing networks that are built on trust, can yield valid and useful information which can help policy development.Practical implicationsThe NSF urgently needs to provide evidence of positive impact. The next stage, based on a focussed approach, offers an opportunity to progress this.Originality/valueFor the first time, a rapid assessment has been undertaken on the Welsh NSF. This inexpensive and readily achievable approach has advantages.